HC Deb 29 March 1933 vol 276 cc997-8
23. Mr. JOHN MORRIS

asked the Minister of Health if he can now inform the House of the extent of the financial assistance the Government will afford to the depressed areas in England and Wales for the alleviation of the heavy Poor Law rate burden borne by these areas?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Mr. Shakespeare)

My right hon. Friend saw yesterday, with the Minister of Labour, a deputation from a number of local authorities on this subject, and the representations which were made are receiving careful consideration.

Mr. MORRIS

Are we to assume that assistance will be given by the Government to these depressed areas?

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

When will the Government make a pronouncement on the representations they received yesterday?

Mr. SHAKESPEARE

The matter is urgent, and everything is being done to expedite a decision.

Mr. WILLIAMS

May we expect a statement from the Minister before the Easter Adjournment?

Mr. SHAKESPEARE

That is our expectation, but I do not want to disappoint hopes.

Mr. THORNE

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that at the meeting yesterday, or the day before, the Minister said that a statement would be made to the House before the Adjournment?